Trucksmart TECH TIPS

Q&A    Misc Tips   

6-Way Zinc Die-Cast Connector (CAR View)
6-Way Zinc Die-Cast Connector (TRAILER View)
7-Way Thermo-Plastic/Metal Connector 7-Way Sealed (CAR View)
7-Way Thermo-Plastic/Metal Connector 7-Way Sealed (TRAILER View)

1. Q&A

Question: I would like some fog lamps for my new SUV. How do I choose the correct ones?
Answer: There is a wide variety of fog & driving lamps available in the marketplace. You could spend $29.00 or $299.00 on a set of lights! In our experience, we at Trucksmart have determined that with auxiliary lamps, you truly "get what you pay for". We sell high-quality lamps from PIAA and HELLA. These lights have features such as; leaded crystal lenses, sealed lens/reflectors, cast aluminum housings and use the latest in bulb technology.

Question: Which color fog lamp is better; amber or clear?
Answer:Well, that depends. Amber lenses get the nod if you're in a white-out snow condition, but clear lenses are the best all-around choice. In addition to a fog lamp, clear can be used as a cornering lamp or simply to fill in the gap between your vehicle and your regular headlamps.

Question: My Explorer really leans when I go around corners. How can I stop this?
Answer: I hate it when that happens! Seriously, regardless of how new your SUV is, you need a quality set of shock absorbers. The factory shocks on virtually every new truck and SUV are designed for a relaxed ride and low cost. Body roll and suspension "mush" are a result of this. Trucksmart has a variety of high quality shocks form $40.00 each and up, that will dramatically reduce body roll and provide a safe, controlled ride.

Question:My new truck came with a trailer hitch, but I don't own a trailer. Should I remove it?
Answer: Definitely not! Trucksmart has a variety of neat accessories that will slide right in the receiver of yours. Cargo baskets, 2-3 & 4 bike carriers and storage pods all provide your truck with more cargo capacity.

Question: I have noticed, that a lot of accessories are installed with double-sided tape. Does it really work?
Answer: If properly prepared accessories installed with acrylic foam tape will last for the life of the vehicle, but the key is preparation. The area must first be cleaned with a wax and grease remover, then with a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water. It is also important for the surfaces to be warm.

Question: I just opened up my new nerf bars, now what?
Answer: As with all accessories, the first thing to do is inspect for damage and missing parts. You would be surprised at how often we find parts missing and lately, shipping damage has been a real problem.


Question:
I read in a magazine advertisement that a lift kit for an 88-98 Chevy truck can be installed in 5 hours, it looks complicated though, is this true?
Answer: Most manufactures tend to oversimplify the installation of their products. In some cases we have found that installation can take up to twice as long as the manufacturer states. It takes longer to install things properly, but well worth it.

Question: The tag on my bumper says that it has an 8000 lb. tow rating. Why do I need a frame hitch?
Answer: It seems that some bumper manufactures overstate how much you should tow with their bumper. That fact is that for most situations you can't beat a frame hitch for its capacity and its ability to evenly distribute the load across the vehicles frame. It is all about mounting area. Most bumpers mount to the very end of the frame, where as hitches usually extend well forward.

Question: I drill a lot of holes, and I have to buy new drill bits, as they get dull.
Answer: Buy a drill bit sharpener like "The Drill Doctor"; it will pay for itself in no time.

Question: How big a winch do I need for my truck?
Answer: It depends on the truck. Typically if you have a ½ ton truck anything 8000 lbs or above would be a good choice. For ¾ ton and 1 ton trucks you'll need a 10,000lb or 12,000lb winch. Compacts can get away with a winch with 5,000lbs or more depending on it's intended use. Its better to go too big than be stuck with an under sized winch.

Question: I can't get a bolt loose. Any suggestions?
Answer: First, use good penetrating oil like Kano Kroil or PB Blaster and let it soak for a while; over night is usually good. If that doesn't work, it is time to break out the torch. Heat the bolt until it glows red than use an impact wrench or a breaker bar to remove. If these don't work you'll have to be creative.

Question: I have noticed galling marks on my new trailer ball. Did I forget something?
Answer: Be sure to lube your balls! Lube is something that is often over looked by the average person. It can prevent the destructive effects of friction on both the trailer and the ball. Any good wheel bearing grease will do.

Question: I just had my truck lifted, it looks great but it drives differently, is this normal?
Answer: Yes this is normal; it will take some time to get used to the new characteristics of your vehicle, so take it slow until you acclimate.

Question: I just took my truck to the tire shop for an alignment and they refused to work on it because it has a new suspension system on it. What do I do?
Answer: Don't worry, many shops prefer not work on altered suspensions and that is their decision. Check with the dealer who sold you the system and see who they recommend. Or, call around; most towns will have a few shops that specialize in modified vehicles.

2. MISC TIPS

Unstick it! Spray all nuts and bolts with a good penetrant like WD-40
the night BEFORE doing suspension work.

No squeaks: Grease the end of add-a-leafs during the install for less
noise and a smoother ride

Stuck bolt: Heat these with a torch until red, then remove immediately.
A sharp blow from a hammer can help

Oops! To prevent drilling a hole through your headliner when
installing a roof rack, use masking tape on the drill bit as a stop.

No flaking: A strip of masking tape on the surface of chrome plating
will prevent the chrome from peeling while it's being drilled.

Make sure they're gonna fit: Perform the lift or lowering on your
truck before buying the tires so you'll be certain they will fit. It
will save you and the tire shop some grief!

Tape is O.K. @-sided tape is being used more than ever to install
accessories. It works great IF the surface is clean, dry, and prepped
with rubbing alcohol or better yet adhesive cleaner (found at body shop
supply stores)

Q&A    Misc Tips

TRUCKSMART, your total accessory source!!